How does aging impact the urinary system?

As individuals age, several physiological changes occur in the urinary system that can negatively impact its function. One of the primary effects of aging is a decrease in kidney function, which can manifest as a decline in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). This means that the kidneys become less efficient at filtering blood, leading to a reduced ability to excrete waste products and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

Additionally, the muscle tone of the bladder is also affected by aging. The detrusor muscle, which is responsible for bladder contraction, can lose elasticity and strength over time. This decreased muscle tone can result in issues such as urinary incontinence or a reduced ability to completely empty the bladder, contributing to other urinary problems.

In contrast to other options, which suggest improvements or benefits to urinary system function with aging, the correct response accurately reflects the real-world consequences of aging on kidney performance and bladder function.